Hello My Name is Julie...
The summer before my sophomore year I had to attend physical therapy for a track injury. I was eager to get back to the court for the following volleyball season, so I worked hard and had fun during all my appointments. My PT and PT assistant were key to my recovery with their positive attitude and valuable program. Looking back on how much I enjoyed physical therapy has helped me decide this career for my internship.
I have lived in Colwich, Kansas my whole life. Growing up seeing my mother and father appreciate and work hard at their jobs makes it very important for me to find a good fit for my future. Both of my older brothers attended four years of college and now have jobs that they enjoy too. Although you may never be able to find the perfect job I want to find something that suites me well. Even if physical therapy is not what I choose to pursue in college; I am still really excited about this opportunity!
My only college plans as of right now are to play volleyball. I am working on the recruiting process at the moment and a big factor of where I go play is the schooling they provide at that college or university. There are so many options that I feel overwhelmed and are having a hard time making a decision. Hopefully this process will ease my anxiety and lead me in a good direction.
If I were to go into physical therapy in the future I would be looking at pursuing a career as a Physical Therapist Assistant. A PTA is someone that works side by side with a physical therapist to provide thorough evidence based on patients care. After the examination has taken place I would help with the plan of care and all the steps it takes to get the patient back to good health and wellness. During my internship I hope to become familiar with the whole process and more. I would like to improve my communication skills including listening and writing during this experience. Furthermore I would like to improve my understanding of science with things such as human anatomy. I am also curious to learn how NovaCare West Physical Therapy programs care for their patients.
Some skills I have gathered from my three previous year in high school that could help me while interning at NovaCare West Physical Therapy are leadership, problem solving, and organizational skills. Being apart of Stuco all four year of high school has taught me how to manage money in our account, plan countless numbers of activities (including pep rallies, prom, and freshman orientation), be responsible, help younger kids feel comfortable and accomplish many other tasks. Being on the volleyball team my sophomore year was a little uncomfortable with all of the scary upperclassmen, but I managed to break through that and be a good leader even at a young age. Now as a senior I am trying to be the best leader yet. Taking tough math and science classes has improved my problem solving skills tremendously. My high school years have provided me with many opportunities for growth.
While I seem to be fairly outgoing around my volleyball team, Stuco members and other peers, speaking to adults or new people can be quite difficult for me. Once I get used to all of the new people around I start to come out of my shell. Going into this process I hope to start out believing in myself and maybe others will notice.
Starting at NovaCare West Physical Therapy in September will be an exciting yet nerve racking day. Of course I will take a test run to find the location and get an approximate drive time. Interacting with all new people and going above and beyond to please my mentor will be some of my goals. Ovearll, I know this experience will help me grow!
-Julie Archer
Potential Career Field: Physical Therapy Assistant
Internship: NovaCare West Physical Therapy
